Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Dates Filled with Goat Cheese

Bacon-wrapped dates filled with goat cheese are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will make your taste buds sing. Imagine biting into a crispy, savory piece of bacon, only to discover the sweet surprise of a perfectly stuffed date, bursting with creamy goat cheese. sweet lemon raspberry cookies The combination of flavors is like a party in your mouth, making it hard to resist going back for seconds—or thirds.

These little bites of happiness have a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I served them at a family gathering; my relatives practically fought over the last few pieces! It seems that bacon and cheese have that magical ability to unite people in delicious harmony. refreshing avocado chicken salad Whether you’re hosting a fancy cocktail party or just having a cozy night in, these bacon-wrapped dates will elevate any occasion.

I still chuckle when I think about my cousin trying to sneakily grab an extra date while I was busy chatting with everyone else. You could say they had quite the reputation!

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Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pitted Medjool Dates: Choose plump, juicy dates for the best sweetness and texture; avoid dry ones if you can.
• Thick-Cut Bacon: Opt for high-quality bacon; its smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of dates. For more inspiration, check out this Roasted garlic potatoes recipe.
• Goat Cheese: Creamy goat cheese adds a tangy contrast; feel free to experiment with flavored varieties. creamy shrimp risotto.
• Honey (optional): A drizzle of honey enhances sweetness and balances flavors; use it if you want an extra touch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. delicious BLT chicken recipe.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature creates crispy bacon while keeping the dates warm and gooey inside.

Prepare the Dates: Carefully slice each date lengthwise without cutting all the way through. This will create a pocket for your gooey filling.

Add Goat Cheese: Stuff each date with approximately one teaspoon of goat cheese. Don’t be shy—fill them generously for maximum flavor!

Wrap in Bacon: Cut each slice of bacon in half and wrap it around each stuffed date. Secure it with a toothpick if needed; this helps keep everything together during baking.

Bake Them Up!: Place your wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and browned.

Drizzle Honey (optional): If using honey, drizzle it over the hot dates as soon as they come out of the oven for an extra layer of sweetness.

Enjoy these little morsels fresh out of the oven; their aroma will fill your kitchen and leave everyone eagerly waiting at the table! Serve them warm as an appetizer or snack; they’re sure to disappear quickly! For more inspiration, check out this Classic patty melt recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by pitting the dates and stuffing them with goat cheese. Wrap each date in bacon and secure with a toothpick. Bake until crispy and golden for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like blue cheese or cream cheese. Adding nuts or spices can elevate flavors and bring a unique twist to every batch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispness without sacrificing flavor.

I once made bacon-wrapped dates for a gathering, and they disappeared faster than you could say “gourmet appetizer.” My friends now request them at every get-together, creating delicious pressure!

FAQ

Can I make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead and bake just before serving for freshness.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?

Cream cheese or feta work well as alternatives to goat cheese filling.

How do I know when they are done cooking?

Look for crispy bacon and warm, gooey cheese inside to determine doneness.